Welcome to our class Wiki Page!

English I is a course which surveys a variety of literature including poetry, drama, the short story, and the novel. As we read, we will focus on building a solid foundation for the analysis and interpretation of literature and its application in contemporary society. We will also strive toward building vocabulary and composition skills. Vocabulary enrichment, grammar, mechanics, and correct word usage are emphasized through various writing projects. Speaking and listening skills are also addressed.

Important Links

You can use the link and access our course policies and procedures.
Policies and Procedures

• After reviewing the policies and procedures, please access and complete the forms located on the Home page.

Calendar: Click on this link to access the course calendar

Grade Level Expectations

This course addresses 9th Grade Reading, Writing, and Communicating Grade Level Expectations:

1. Oral Expression and Listening: Students will participate in various activities that require both speaking and listening skills. This will include formal speeches, Socratic seminars, group presentations, etc.
2. Reading for All Purposes: Students will read and analyze a variety of genres of literature including poetry, non-fiction, short stories, novels, etc. for the purpose of understanding theme, author's intent, societal implications, etc.
3. Writing and Composition: Students will focus on developing varied writing skills through drafting, editing, modeling, revising, and re-writing.
4. Research and Reasoning: Students will create several research projects throughout the year. The research projects will increase in complexity as the year progresses and skills are developed

21st Century Skills

This course addresses the district's goal of Integration of 21st Century Skills:

• Communication: Through class discussion, individual and group presentations, small group work, effective communication skills will be addressed and assessed.
• Collaboration: Students will be expected to effectively work with peers on a regular basis.
• Creativity and Innovation: Students are encouraged to think innovatively and embrace creativity.
• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills: "Spoon feeding" will not occur in this class. Students will be asked to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize to draw their own conclusions and then support those conclusions.

Evaluation

Grades will be based on a weighted grading system evaluating reading, writing, research, and presentation activities on appropriate Grade Level Expectations.

Grading Scale: 90-100 A, 80-89 B, 70-79 C, 60-69 D, 0-59 F
Grading Categories/Weights:

• Homework/Participation - 20%
  • Class activities and discussion, reading and homework assignments, grammar and vocabulary activities
• Formative and Interim Assessments - 30%
  • Vocabulary tests, objective content quizzes, interim essays/drafts, and other graded knowledge checks
• Summative Assessments - 50%
  • Final essays, unit/end of term assessments, and final research projects

Supplies

The following supplies will be required for the course:

• Sadlier-Oxford Level D Vocabulary book
• A system of organization: binder, folders, accordian file, etc.
• Loose leaf notebook paper
• Pencils and blue or black ink pens
• Post-It Notes and highlighters (for note-taking on worksheets and in books)
• Recommended: Art supplies (markers, colored pencils, scissors, etc. for periodic use)
• Recommended: Portable "thumb drive" or storage device

Units

Poetry & Short Stories